Baptism// Live as Saints Should Live

Baptism— Romans 6

1. As taught in Romans 6:1-13;
1. What must be done with sin before baptism can occur? As stated in verse 2, sin must be dead. This means that we must put away all sin in order to be worthy of becoming completely clean through baptism.
2. What events from Christ’s life are symbolized in baptism? According to verse 3-4, Christ’s dead is represented by the actual performance of baptism and His resurrection is represented as one is taken back up out of the water after receiving baptism.
3. Considering the symbolism, why is baptism by sprinkling not sufficient? Sprinkling is not sufficient because one is not fully immersed into the water and then brought back out, straightway. This was the order taught, thus sprinkling is not sufficient because it is not doctrinally based or symbolic as the true order of baptism must be.
4. How do we maintain the “newness of life?” The “newness of life” is maintain as one receives baptism. They are parting from their sins and making a covenant with God to forever utilize the power of baptism and the Holy Spirit to again become clean unto Him.
5. What part of us ideally dies as baptism (according to Mosiah 3:19)? Our natural man dies as we receive baptism. We then become His saints, following His will. 
2. According to Romans 6:14-23;
1. How do we know whose servants we are? We made covenants with God, thus we are His servants asking in His name to bring about His work in His order. As stated in verse 16-18 we need to follow the laws of our God, repent to that same God, and be righteous in the ways that that same God outlined. We are His and He is in us.
2. What is the true source of freedom? According to ver 20, we are free become of righteousness. As we follow the simple guidelines and commandments given, our potential and ability multiplies exponentially. It is through Him that this is possible.

Live as Saints Should Live 

1. What is “nearer” according to Romans 13:11? “Nearer” is interpreted to mean our salvation and righteousness are growing. In a literal sense we can say that we are becoming more righteous, thus more in tune with what He what have us become.
1. What must we continue to do to further the work of salvation (as taught in Ezekiel 3:20 and Doctrine and Covenants 14:7)? We must always to remember to follow the commandment of God and endure to the end. As we learn to do these things for ourself, we must teach and lift those around us. We start with ourselves first because we need to be concerned about our salvation and then we move on to others that we love or some to love as we serve them.
2. What counsel is given the leads to salvation?
1. Romans 12:1— Present your body as a living sacrifice by using it for only good.
2. Romans 12:2— Renew your mind oft to prove and perfect it.
3. Romans 12:9— Love without dissimulation.
4. Romans 12:13— Be hospitable.
5. Romans 12:16— Do not put yourself above others, we are on level playing ground.
6. Romans 12:21— Overcome evil with good instead of letting it consume you.
7. Romans 13:1— Realize and utilize the power of God, bring about His work, bless His children.
8. Romans 13:3— Do not be afraid of His power that you posses. Use it for good.
9. Romans 13:8— Love one another without expectation.
10. Romans 13:9— Do not commit adultery, kill, steal, covet, or bear false witness. Love they neighbor.
3. According to Romans 14:1-13 and 15:1-3;
1. What cautions did Paul give on judging? Paul cautions not to judge because him who does judge, is not received of God or worthy of His Holy Spirit.
2. When people have different opinions and practices, what is most important to remember? As Christ did, we was an example of love and acceptance. We need to follow in Him footsteps but accepting others no matter their opinions or practices. Of course, we can personally hold ourselves to a higher standard but that doesn’t mean that we cannot be friends with or associate ourselves with anyone that may appear to have “lower” standards in our eyes. It is not left to us to judge.
3. What additional insights come from reading Doctrine and Covenants 38:25-27? We are taught to be one. This many not mean be one in standards or opinions but instead stand as one by lifting and supporting one another.
4. What term did Paul frequently use in Romans 15:25-26, 31, 16:2, 15 when referring to Latter-day Saints today? These verses all talk about receiving and contributing to the saints. To us this could translate into being accepting and willing to learn about and to associate with all of the people around us. They are all saints to a degree and children of God just as we are.

Examples// Forgiveness

Impact of an Example

1. What is required of the servants of The Lord according to 1Cor 4:2?
1. As servants of The Lord we are required to be faithful. The Lord will trust us with different callings and stewardships throughout our lives but in order to magnify these callings we must first be faithful unto Him. He will continue to trust us with spiritual experiences as we prove our faithfulness in roles in which we assigns us.
2. What group is specifically selected to be examples according to 1 Cor 4:9-17?
1. The Lord has called prophets and apostles to lead and guide the church with good examples. Like us, the Brethren are given a stewardship to lead and to teach. As they live worthy and faithful lives independently, then The Lord will uphold them and protect them in order for these men to uphold their calling. 
3. How does being a good example apply to more than this group?
1. Although the Brethren are called upon to have a large stewardship, all those who are children of God have a stewardship and responsibility to help other come unto Him. Therefore, all men, women, and children have a divine role in bring to pass His work by being good, wholesome examples to those around them— in their stewardship.
4. Why is it not enough just to know and not to act according to Alma 39:11-12?
1. As Alma teaches, The Lord commands us to “do good.” It is our responsibility as His servants to find those seeking His truth. If we but keep out mouthes closed and refrain from sharing and uplifting, the evil things of the world will find their way to those seeking. Satan is a master at his art of turning people away form truth. If we do not fill the world with good, it will inherently be filled with evil. We must do our part!
5. What additional power comes to those who live what they know according to 3 Nephi 8:1?
1. With the power bestowed on us by Jesus Christ, if we are worthy, are are able to preform miracles in His name. As we do these things and align our will with Him, we will be cleansed of our sins and past transgressions. God promises us that as we preform “miracle[s] in the name of Jesus [we can be] cleansed every whit from [our] iniquity."

Forgiveness

1. What were the people of Corinth commanded to do “if any have caused grief?”
1. According to 1 Cor 2:1-11— In these verse we are reassured that God is with us in our lowest of lows. God understands out weaknesses and fears. He councils us that if we feel low or fearful, we can call on the Sprit of God for comfort. It is through this Spirit that we will be able to better understand our hard times and find refuge in Him.
2. According to Matthew 6:14-15— We are commanded to forgive. As others feel feelings of grief and pain for wrong that has come upon them, we are commanded to console them and be a rock for them as we forgive and accept them as a child or God. We are all in a learning state and cannot let others stay unchanged. A factor involved in change is allotted by others. As we open our minds and hearts, allowing for others to change and improve in our minds, we are giving them an opportunity to grow and to become examples to us.
3. According to Doctrine and Covenants 64:9-10— Again we are reminded to forgive. The Lord first sets the example of forgiveness as He allows us partake of those blessings. The next step is for us to extend that mercy and forgiveness to others around us. If those around us don’t allow us to change, then we will become disheartened and demotivated. Instead we should provide an environment for growth and rebirth, just as the Savior does for us.

Pentecost// upholding our covenants

The Day of the Pentecost

1. Briefly describe the meaning of the day of Pentecost.
1. The Pentecost was called “The Day of the Harvest” in the times of the Old Testament. This was a time for people to gather to celebrate the first crops and such of the season. It is very fitting that missionary work was underway during this celebration and not only was the new food of “the harvest” celebrated, but the new member of “The Lord’s vineyard” were celebrated. The teachings of Paul touched the hearts of 3,000+ saints and they received baptism and then the gift of the Holy Ghost to be one in covenant with each other and The Lord.
2. List 2-3 of Paul’s teachings on this day.
1. On this day Paul taught a teaching that God has previously taught: “it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy:” (Acts 2:17-18). This teaching is a promise form God. God is recognizing and verbalizing that His holy Spirit will be available to utilized by “all flesh.” The Paul is teaching this to the people to teach them of the love and mercy that God has; He is making this amazing blessing available to all.
2. Paul teaches the saint to “...Save yourselves from this untoward generation.” Peter has already taught the principle of baptism and about the gift of the Holy Ghost that follows the ordinance of baptism, so now they are calling the people to action by exporting them to obey and follow God.
3. In what ways did Peter fulfill his role as a special witness of Jesus Christ?
1. Peter fulfilled his role as a special witness of Jesus Christ by testifying of Jesus’ resurrection and teaching the importance and meaning of it. This teaching and testimony brings souls unto Christ, Him who he was called to witness for. This role is further fulfill as Peter teachings the saving ordinance of baptism: "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost” (Acts 2:38).
4. What gifts of the Spirit were made manifest on the day of the Pentecost?
1. The gift of tongues, visions, prophecies, and signs were all given as blessings on this day (Acts 2:17). The gift of having the Holy Spirit “seen and heard” (Acts 2:33) were give on this day we well to witness to the saints who were being taught by Peter and Paul.
5. How did the people respond to what occurred on this day?
1. Those who listened and felt of the Holy Spirit, acted right away (Acts 2:41). These saints were baptized and upheld their baptismal covenants well by “[continuously being] steadfast (Acts 2:41) and continued in daily learning from the prophets and apostles, prayer, sabbath-day worship of breaking bread, and temple worship (Acts 2:41-46). These saints praised God because they understood the covenant that they were privileged to make with God. These saints were of His elect.
2. Now that we have the examples of these elect and righteous people (found in Acts 2 of the New Testament), how do we continue to uphold the covenants that we made with God at the time of our baptism?

I'm back// Proper Priesthood Authory

Today marks 2 years since I first entered the MTC.  This blog was created to document my journey and experience as I set out to serve The Lord as His full-time missionary. That calling was extended, accepted, and executed. I am now continuing my education at Brigham Young University-Idaho. Here I have enrolled in a New Testament class. In this class we will be reading the latter half of the New Testament in the King James Version of the Holy Bible. I want to share the thoughts and things that I learn with those who still might be following this blog.

If anyone ever has questions or comments, please feel free to contact me! I would love to further teach or study these topics with anyone who is interested.

--AnneMarie Sloan

Assignment 1

Proper Authority and Ministering to the People

1. What did Paul do for the Corinthian saints because it hadn’t been done right the first time?
1. Paul came to the Corinthian people to preach to them but to his surprise they told him that they had already been baptized. As Paul inquired further, he learned that they were not baptized under the proper authority in the name of Jesus Christ. In order for these saints to be properly ordained worthy of eternal blessings, they stood in need of being baptized by one holding the proper priesthood authority of God. Thus Paul baptized these twelve saints in the name of Jesus Christ (Acts 19:3-4).
2. How does this help answer the question many nonmembers have about the need of being baptized when they have already been baptized?
1. We understand that the proper authority of God is required in order for people to receive eternal blessings that they are privileged to. The importance of this sacred order comes from God’s eternal plan for us. His plan is what sets standards and guidelines to help us stay on the straight and narrow path that leads back to Him. This order is a tool to be taught and utilized to show our trust and commitment to Him. His elect will understand and obey (Acts 19:3-5).
3. In what way did Paul bestow the gift of the Holy Ghost?
1. After these saints were baptized, Paul laid his hands upon the Corinthian’s saint’s heads to bestow the Holy Ghost on them (Acts 19:6).
4. On what day of the week did the saints meet to break bread?
1. The saints break bread on Sunday (Acts 20:7-8). Now that Jesus Christ is resurrected, the saints understand that we worship a living God. When the Earth was first created in the beginning, God rested on the “last day” which was Saturday. But now that Jesus Christ fulfilled His mission here on Earth, we now remember and worship on the day that He was resurrected.
5. What evidence is there in John 20:1, 19 for why the Sabbath day was changed?
1. John 20:1 talked about Mary, the mother of Jesus, coming to His tomb after He is crucified and then buried in the tomb. The tomb is where Jesus’ body was laid by the saints after His soul left his mortal body for a time. This verse is when Mary finds the stone from in front of the tomb gone. This is when we read about Christ being resurrected, thus teaching us that the Sabbath day was changed from Saturday to Sunday.

The End

Sunday, 2014/10/12 1:07AM

This weekend has been monumental. I have spent the last six weeks adjusting to life after having served a full-time proselyting mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. I am proud to have had this opportunity but am struggling to close this chapter. A good friend consoled me and empathizing with me in saying, “it’s as if your body is here, in Rexburg, Idaho but your heart and soul is still among the Korean people.”

I sit here in my 2012 adorable Volkswagen Jetta, emotional. The tears and inspiration have been overwhelming. Friday and Saturday I spent the days at a business conference on BYU-Idaho campus called ‘The Power to Become.’ Here, there were several amazing human beings that came to lift and inspire us through their phenomenal stories. The Gospel of Jesus Christ was a prominent part of each one of their amazing stories. It is because of Him, our Lord and Savior, that these people have changed the world. No matter the capacity of their influence, the world has been bettered. I desire to do the same.

Tonight, well- Saturday night, I went to see the newest movie in theaters. ‘Meet the Mormons’ was unbelievably executed. The six individuals that were documented with their families were nothing but fantastic, real, and passionate. My tears were uncontrollable when the last family prepared to send their oldest son on a mission. When the time finally came, they found themselves at the Salt Lake City, Utah airport. The familiar scene triggered my not-so-distant memories to come to the forefront of my mind. I was just there. Just 19 months ago my family flew to this airport together before dropping me off at the Provo, Utah MTC where my missionary life began. But that wasn’t the end of the memories, six short weekends ago, my family again found themselves waiting at this beloved airport. They waited as I de-boarded an airplane having departed from South Korea through Dallas, Texas just 23 hours prior. The welcome was sweet. But the goodbye of this young boy in the movie made it bitter. In the faces of his family, their faith and trial was apparent. As it is for me now. Every single day I miss Korea. I miss my friends, ward members, investigators, neighbors, day-to-day acquaintances, and anyone with beautiful black hair and glowing yellow skin. I have come to love Asia. I have fallen in love with the people and culture. But this is not an abstract idea only allotted to those who travel. This feeling of such a deep and unforgettable love stems from service.

Each story shared in the #p2become conference as well as the stories illustrated in the fantastic ‘Meet the Mormons’ movie all credited their faith and realization of Jesus Christ’s influence in their lives. They had all come to understand their personal responsibility to share and spread His love through service. Small, simple, or gigantic acts of service. Not every story told began with missionary service, however each and every story was influenced by it in some way. To me, this spoke volumes. There is missionary work to be done with and without a little back name tag.

My little black name tag has meant so much to me- more than my limited vocabulary can express. It is still hard to get dressed everyday having to exclude what had become my best accessory. Instead, I am left to put to work everything that the Korean people and The Lord taught me in such a short amount of time, when I was privileged to wear such an honor. His name is with me and His influence will shape me. The lives of others is proof of that truth. I am ready to discover my passion and purpose. I know that everyone plays a part in this masterpiece of the world. At times I will feel aimless but the comfort will come as I ask and pursue it. I am slowly beginning to find my part. I am discovering who I am. This chapter will inevitably close, so I will choose to close it with my  testimony.

Jesus Christ will always be our Savior, Redeemer, and beloved older brother. He provided the saving power of the Atonement. The Atonement has shaped my life and filled the deep voids of regret. I am whole so long as I apply and remember Him and what He did. God is a loving god. He gave us examples, families, and a way to live with Him again. He will never abandon us. He will always know what we need and has given us priceless gifts of prayer and the Holy Spirit. These are the gifts by which we communicate with our Maker and Eternal Father. I love Him. I am grateful for Him. Just like He created us, He has given us the same ability. Let us create and use our resources to build His kingdom. We build and love as we service and influence. It’s so amazing what we are all capable of creating!

I say all of these things and conclude my mission journal, in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Adapting to being home

9/1-7

Monday was Labor Day. I spent a good portion of the day with my parents and some family friends, Cary and Barbara Jenkins. We all drove up to Sundance Resort to go mountain biking. Before my missionary service I was very much one to seek out opportunities like this, but today I struggled with possibly being the biggest wimp I've ever met. The first ride down the mountain was rough, it didn't take long for the tears to emerge from my eyes.

Adjusting from the missionary schedule and routine is harder than I thought. It's hard to explain, but I'll do my best:

The emotional rollar coast is intense. When I left Korea I was sad to leave, but excited to come home. Being home I have been at a loss of what is okay and what is not (most everything goes btw). I have been scared and stressed for a variety of reasons- one of which being on a bike with loud breaks, flying down a mountain trail that I've never been on before, and following my father who is yards ahead of me. I did my best to keep up and managed only to fall twice. All of these emotions running though my body, coupled with adrenaline and fear cause my eyes to swell and tears to fall haha. Looking back, that was a good activity to just allow me to deal with and get rid of most of the self-inflicted emotions. After lunch we went for a second run and it was much better. I actually enjoyed myself. On our way home we stopped for dinner- a traditional American hamburger on this holiday weekend. It was awesome!

For the evening, I spent time going though some of the storage that I had left behind at my parents house. I picked up my dear friend, Sister Bagley- my sixth missionary companion. She has some health problems which caused her to come home early and hopefully temporarily. Now that I understand the value of getting out of the house to deal with emotions, I decided to invite her over. While it was probably boring for her to watch me sort my things, as we sat we were all in good company and entertained by my bickering family haha.

Tuesday was a full day! My mother wanted me checked from head to toe by every doctor available. It was productive but a long day spent in doctor's office waiting rooms. My mom and I enjoyed each other's company though and were able to catch up. It was nice. To end the evening, I was asked to dinner by an old friend, Lib Montoya. It was weird not having a girl or companion around but thankfully it didn't last too long.

Wednesday was another productive day of doctor appointments- including a much needed mani-pedi. By the evening time I drove to Provo to visit an old roommate, Sarah Reid- now Sarah Christiansen, and her husband Gunner Christensen. They made a gourmet meal of waffles and strawberries as we talked about out my mission and their lives. It was a lot of fun. Again, it was weird seeing and hearing all about how people's lives have changed, including mine.

Thursday was just a day at home. My mother had to run some errands and I was asked to look after my 3 year old nephew, Issac. He is THE smartest 3 year old I have ever met. He was getting pretty rowdy so I suggested we go for a bike ride. That kept him entertained for maybe 30 minutes. Next, he wanted to sit in his wagon while I pulled him. It was fun until his series of directions got us lost haha. Maybe 75 minutes later he exclaimed that he was hot and tired, yeah tell me about it haha. We found some shade near some horses and while we rested we fed them. It was fun. Once I regained my energy and he was itching to leave, I more or less ran home so he couldn't be distracted by anymore animals or plants on our way haha.

When we got home, I handed Isaac off to his dad, Scott Homer (my older sister's new husband). To end the evening, we ate a yummy dinner made by my momma. After, we helped clean the kitchen and the rest of the house since, we were leaving for the weekend tomorrow. Also, my little sister, Danielle, came home from work to give me a professional, hour massage. It was AWESOME! She just graduated from massage therapy school and is working some pretty sweet gigs- I am so proud of her, and grateful for the family benefits hehe.

Friday we all woke up early to get on the road to St. George in preparation for our big hike in Zion's National Park tomorrow. In our car we had my parents and nephew. Isaac is currently potty training so our four hour drive turned into more like five with all the emergency stops haha. It was hilarious because he would either tell us quietly, "I have to pee pee" or scream "Ouch!! I hate when my pee pee gets long! I have to pee now!!" Haha poor kid. When we finally arrived, we dropped Isaac off at his Grandma Sherie Homer's house (per Alise's request) and then checked into our hotel.

Once we were settled, my good friends Chelsea and Quentin Kantaris arrived so we left to eat dinner together. It was so fun to catch up with them and my parents. They have been my good friends since high school, while they are the same they are also pretty matured and adult-like nowadays. How do people's lives continue without me? Haha is that selfish? We ate Thai food and stopped to eat custard for dessert. It was all delicious. Little by little I am adjusting to American-styled food again. Before heading back to our hotels, we stopped at the grocery store to pick up snacks for our hike- even that was fun with Chels and Quen. I have missed them. As an excuse to spend more time together we hoped into our bathing suits and went to the hot tub. Slowly I am getting back to normal with normal human situations where people are in bathing suits haha. It was pretty awkward at first, but I think I'm alright now.

Saturday was the day of our hike. The cars were packed and everyone piled in (The Sloans- James, Derek, me, Danielle, The Homers- Scott Alise, The Kantaris- Quentin, Chelsea, and Kailey McBride, and Maddy Allen). It was a fun bunch. We did the 9.5ish mile hike called 'The Subway.' It was rough but awesome! There was mostly hiking but also some swimming through freezing-cold water, and repelling down some tall cliffs. It was quite the variety! As we ventured through the park, it gave ample time to hear all about people's lives and how they've change. I had a lot of fun! By the end we had been separated based on everyone’s different paces. The end of the trail was hard to identify so Chels, Quen, and I stayed back to make sure our whole group knew where to turn off. Once we informed Derek and Kailey, the three of us were off to finish the hike. Unfortunately, we thought we found a trail up the mountain, but it turned more into our own... It was super dangerous and unfortunately there was a group of young Boy Scouts that decided to follow us up as we just about scaled the mountain... Whoops haha. It all ended well as we finished the night with pizza, more hot tubbing, and nice hot showers. It was a great day!

Sunday was a nice morning because we were all able to sleep in. Just about everyone was sore and moving in slow motion as we all got ready for church. Luckily it was fast Sunday (because we didn't have time for breakfast anyway) and church started at 11AM. It was a great testimony meeting. There was one boy in particular that touched me. He is probably a senior in high school and he recounted an experience he had this passed weekend.. Him and his little brother went elk hunting and on their way out of the canyon they got lost. Immediately he felt the pull to get him and his brother to safety before the sun completely set. This young man left his brother with their packs as he quickly climbed a mountain to see where they were. On his way back down he heard he brother crying and praying to God for help. It was a learning experience for this young man to remember that he is nothing without God and His power. Obviously they made it safely home but it made him think about his priorities. Me too, it was a good reminder to remember to ask The Lord for help before relying on my own strength and abilities. Of course He gave us our brains and abilities for a reason but more often than not, His power will be shown as we invite and welcome His help.

Coming Home

8/25-31

Kim Mi Rahn

Monday was my last PDAY in the field. Nothing big was planned since I needed to pack and clean my desk and clothes rack for the next sister coming to replace me. Even though I spent a good amount of time organizing all of my belongings nothing seemed to sink in. It just felt like another transfer. I wonder when this will feel real..

When lunch time rolled around Sister Gapinski and I met 한금아S (Sister Han), our ward member, at her home. She wanted to take us out for lunch since I was leaving. We ate 매운물내면 (spicy-water-cold-noodle soup) and it was delicious. This member had a few things to get back to, so we were in and out of the restaurant in less than 35 minutes haha. On our way home, we ran a few errands and then spent the rest of the day at home finishing things in the house. By 5:30PM we met 심하정S (Sister Shim) at her house. We helped her make french fries as we watched the beginning of '17 Miracles.' We had a good time. When her husband (이지웅B) got home, we tried to persuade the two of them come to our ward FHE. It was more of a going away party for me and 박동규E (Elder Park) so Sister Shim decided to come, her husband had a headache so he stayed back. On our way there Sister Shim told us over and over that she was shy and that she didn't want to talk to people. We assured her that it was normally just food and then we could leave. Well~ when we arrived a lot more people came than I expected and they were in the process of preparing food. Which meant that we would be playing games until it was all ready haha. Whoops! Poor Sister Shim felt so awkward but eventually things got better. Elder Park and I were called to the front before the food was served to have bishop say a lot of really nice things and especially his appreciation for the work we have done here in the 만수 (Mansu) ward. I was grateful for his words. I went back to my seat just to be called up again to have a birthday song sung to me and Elder Meeks, whose birthday was Monday and mine was Tuesday. This ward is amazing. I love them!! It was a great night. I took a few pictures and then we walked Sister Shim home. It was in fact a day well spent.

Bishop Kim Woo Shik and wife Lee Hyon Ja

Tuesday. Today is my 23rd birthday. Our district leader, Elder Park, planned for our district to meet at the Incheon Grand Park for a lunch together to celebrate mine and Elder Meek's birthday again. It was fun. Sister Gapinski bought us a 밥버거 (rice burger) which I was grateful for, because the elders ended up bringing all junk food and soda. We didn't stay long since we all had appointments soon after but it was nice to have been thought of.

Relief Society President Bah Ah Sook

Next we headed to 배애숙S (Sister Bay- our Relief Society president)'s house. We had to wait a while with her son and granddaughter until a utility man left their house. When we finally shared the message, it went really well. I was pleasantly surprised and so was Sister Bay and her son. Last minute we geared it a little more towards her son because he is a little less active despite being a returned missionary. I was pleased.

Jeong Hyah Youn

We then went to the church where we met 정혜연S (Sister Jeong), a less active member. She is the member who worked at the Any Time convenient store that Sister Bagley and I would consistently visit. Once Sister Mineer came, she had moved into her boyfriends house in the Daejeon mission boundaries so we weren't able to visit her. BUT she moved back in with her parents, above the Any Time shop! We met her last week but today she insisted that we meet at the church. It was cute to hear her say, "I haven't been there in so long, I want to visit it with you." So that is what we did. We took a quick tour first and then had a brief lesson. It went well and she is determined to start coming back. I really hope she does! She was baptized with very little knowledge of what baptism really meant. Sister Jeong really needs to start coming to church to really understand and learn what it means to be baptized into this church.

Our crazy neighbor

We had to quickly stop at the house for a few things and on our way out I saw a puzzle that I most definitely did not have room for in my luggage. I thought for a minute and decided that I wanted to give it to our crazy grandma neighbor. She is always snooping in our house when we leave the front door open for fresh air. Anyway, she lives alone so I figured I could give her something to fill her time. When we knocked on the door she was so happy to see us. I said some small things and then handed her the gift. She was so happy but had no idea what it was haha. As I looked more closely at the puzzle it mentioned that it was 500 pieces... This poor woman couldn't figure out how to take the top off... haha how she was going to grasp the concept of this giant puzzle was beyond me. I just laughed and opened it for her. With a huge smile and eyes of excitement she looked at me and said, "뭐야" or in other words, "what the heck is this" haha. Too funny grandma, too funny.

Our flyer-passing outer friend

Last on the list for today was our lovely 이두례S (Momma Lee). Her husband had previously insisted on us coming for dinner for my birthday, and that day was today. Last minute Elder Meeks and Watts were invited to celebrate Elder Meeks' birthday as well. They took us to a REALLY nice restaurant and boy did I eat well! It was hard though because Momma Lee's husband was insistent on me eating as much as possible so that I could “get my fill of Korean food before I left” haha. It was delicious but rough. Nevertheless, I was so~ grateful for them treating us. It was beyond nice of them. As we left, I gave Momma Lee a picture of us in a frame. She loved it. I am really going to miss her. She drove us home and hugged us off. I am actually surprised how little I have cried these days, as I prepare to return back home. I really am sad to be leaving all of these people but I suppose the reality of these times being 'my last' just hasn't sunk in deep enough for me to react.

After we were home and had planned for the next day, Sister Shim and Brother Lee, her husband, called and requested for us to come downstairs. We met them to say goodbye. They gave me a silly gift of a random bowl and a food tray. It was weird, but that doesn’t change how much I love them. I gave Sister Shim a huge hug. Brother Lee was so dramatic when we told him it was a missionary rule that I couldn’t hug him so instead he decided to go for a close air hug. It was weird but funny. I'm going to miss being able to see them all the time. Sigh, I am grateful for technology I suppose- it will be the closest I can get once I'm back in America.

To end the day, I received a phone call from our zone leaders, 김재겸E (Elder Kim) and Elder Nemelka, they called to sing me happy birthday. It was nice of them. Then Elder Kim went on and on about how sad he was. He is sad that the mission is loosing so many awesome missionaries and he is sad because so many of his good friends are leaving. It was sweet of him to compliment me and my service; he was so grateful for all that I have done for his country and other fellow missionaries. In return I told him how great of a district leader he was (when I was a greenie), how phenomenal he was as an assistant, and now how wonderful he is as a zone leader in 인천 (Incheon). Elder Kim began to cry, it was adorable. I never thought it would be this hard to leave a group of missionaries and friends, but it is. It is especially hard knowing that we will be worlds apart once we all return to our hometowns and countries. I love Korea. I will forever miss it.

Elder Stowe

Wednesday, transfer day. It was too weird to think that my time as a full-time proselyting missionary in my assigned area of 만수 (Mansu) was over. Over! Sister Gapinski and I began to haul my luggage out of our apartment but to our surprise Sister Shim was waiting outside for us. She didn't want last night to be the last goodbye, she is so cute. She gave me another gift of a frame with pictures of her and her husband haha. I love it. As we began walking she became frustrated that the elders or ward members weren't there to helping us. Just as she said this, guess who we saw on the street? 이미영S (Sister Lee), our darling ward member whose daughter, 최재인S, I helped teach in preparation for baptism. She too was curious as to why we had not asked anyone to help us carry our things. She immediately called someone to help. It was incredible timing. 박미영S (Sister Park), the less active we have been working with, drove us to the subway station to save us a bus trip. It was so kind and Sister Shim was pleased to see people helping us. It feels good to be loved. It was an eventful way to the say goodbye to my favorite ward and area.

Once on the subway the trip was short and we were able to greet a majority of the mission at transfers at the 영등포 (YongDungPo) ward building. That is where I met up with Sister Bassett. We have served so much of our missions together! First in the MTC, then in 수원 (Suwon) as my STL (she took me on a few exchanges), and then finally in 인천 (Incheon) where I was her STL (and took her on several exchanges). It has been a blast and today we decided to visit a couple friends that live in Suwon.

Jason and Lee Uhn Song

We first went to 평택 (PyongTeak) to have lunch with a former investigator that Sister Bassett used to teach. It was fun and she was so kind to have treated us. Since PyongTeak was far, we were running out of time and I had made plans to see 서은영S (Sister Soh), a former investigator from my greenie area. We were supposed to have eaten dinner together with her husband (Jason) and son (Phillip), but we had less than an hour until Sister Bassett and I needed to be on our way to the mission home for my exit interview. We stopped in a mall to have smoothies, talk for a little, and then she took is to the proper bus stop. I was SO sad that our time was gipped but what can you do???

We got to the mission home just in time for my exit interview. That too went well. It was fun to talk all about what I have learned. I feel like I was all over the place, because I had so much to say with so little time haha. President Morrise was patient with me though and gave me some guidance on post mission life. It was a great end to our day. We finished just before 10:30PM so I didn’t have too much time to prepare for bed. When I finally was ready, a gloriously comfortable bed was waiting for me. I miss pillows and mattress pads! I slept well.

Thursday morning all of the returning missionaries had a breakfast together, prepared by Sister Morrise. It was good, but we had to eat quickly in order to get out the door to start traveling to the temple. All returning missionaries have the privilege of attending a session in the Seoul temple before concluding our missions here in Korea. It was an honor to be back and the workers were especially welcoming to us today. There is a phrase in Korean that translates to "good work" but over time it has become a way of saying goodbye to hardworking people. We received this greeting over and over as we finished the session and left. It was a great session! Oh! By the way we did it in Korean today and I was SHOCKED how much I understood. It was a good feeling knowing I really have learned more Korean than I gave myself credit for.

Sister Jo Un Bi

Because the weather was PERFECT we stuck around to take a bunch of pictures. I feel so blessed to have had such amazing weather for my last temple visit. Next we made our way back to the mission home so the rest of the sister missionaries could have their exit interviews with President Morrise. I continued to pack and reorganize my things. By 5PM everything was squared away for the morning and all of the returning missionaries (Elders Wedam, Baldwin, Bishop, 박동규E, 석찬영E, and Sisters Washburn, Saunders, Bassett, 조은비S, me) had a dinner together; again made by Sister Morrise. It was unfortunately American food, chicken pot pie to be exact. It tasted fine, but I haven't had American food like that for 18 months now and my stomach, along with many others, were not too happy. We were of course grateful, but I hardly ate.

To end the evening Sister Morrise and the sisters cleaned up dinner and then we joined the elders and president for a final testimony meeting. The spirit was powerful. I feel privileged to be going home with such a phenomenal group! It amazes me to see anyone and everyone come closer to Jesus Christ in a wide~ variety of ways. Investigators and missionaries alike, we have unbelievable experiences with prayer, scripture study, miracles, and tender mercies from God. It is unreal to think about how He does it all, but I am a witness that He does it, and He does it all for us. President Morrise concluded the meeting with a quote from a former mission companion of his, saying something along the lines of, "We came to help others become converted and to become closer with Christ but instead we are the converts." Now that we are moldable and willing, we are His work boots on the ground, and we all ran a good race.

After the meeting concluded we went out into the hallway where we sang songs from the Korean hymn book. It was a blast. When we finished there it was past our bed time. I was happy to have to rush and sleep, I was exhausted.

Friday morning was strange. All of my things were packed and all loose ends had been tied. These last few days I have been feeling kind of empty. I feel like since I have been working so hard for so long, I was confused as to why we were asked to stop. Why were we stopping!? There is still work to be done! It was weird thinking about all of the appointments going on without me and all of the missionary work in all areas where I have served continuing as if I never came or left. It was strange. But after personal study and a lot of reflection I feel like it was my time. It's time for me to trust all the experienced and even the new missionaries with all those I have come to love. Of course, I will still do my part in keeping in contact but, sigh, it's my time. I have worked hard, I am ready to be home, I am ready to start my next mission. One adorable Korean elder said, "This time was just the MTC for the rest of our lives, now let's start the real deal!" It was too cute.

By 11AM all of the returning missionaries loaded our stuff in the mission van and then we followed President and Sister Morrise through the famous Olympic Park to our bus stop. We said our last goodbyes and loaded our heavy luggage into our "airport limousine" haha. The ride took about 2 hours and we arrived to the airport just in time to see that our flight had been delayed for a few hours. We checked our bags and ate lunch. I travelled with Sister Bassett and Sister Saunders. They are awesome! We had a blast together.

Waiting at the Incheon, Korea airport

When we FINALLY boarded our flight to Dallas, I took a couple Z-Quil pills to try and zonk out. It worked like a charm! The first 8 of 12 hours were spent in every awkward potion my body could form, sleeping haha. I woke up for dinner and second dinner, but slept like a rock. With the remaining 4 hours all of us sisters read our scriptures, socialized, and talked to the Korean family sitting next to us. Sister Saunders had the privilege of sitting next to this woman's sleeping 8 year old son. She kindly raised her armrest and let his legs sprawl across her lap. As she studied, he slept and as he slept he kicked. He kicked her tray table full of study material, he kicked her stomach, he kicked the row in front of us. It was super funny! Eventually he slept calmly and so did we. The flight was smooth and enjoyable. I was actually impressed with the Korean food that they served too! I am really going to miss homemade 김치 (kimchee) and 고추장 (red pepper paste) sauce...

By 7PM we landed in Dallas, Texas. Since we came from Korea we had to go through customs again and recheck our baggage. It went a lot smoother than I was anticipating. In no time we were on an escalator that would lead us to our terminal. To our surprise, as we approached the top of the escalator, guess who was waiting? Jay Marks! He was waiting and yelling "여보세요?" or "Hello?" haha it was too funny. Just before we reached the top he asked, “Can I hug you??” I hesitated as I thought about the missionary rules and then replied, “Um.. probably not.” Regardless of my response he immediately wrapped his arms around me for the biggest hug of my life. I love him. He welcomed all of us with “American water bottles,” as he refers to them, and a cell phone to call our families. It was so fun to see him and his wife, Stacy. We didn’t have too much time so we left as fast as we came. Once through security, the sisters and I went to the bathroom to put on make up in an attempt to look presentable after 26ish hours of traveling. As soon as we finished, it was time for us to board. 2 hours later, we landed and I was giddy.

We anxiously waited to de-board the plane. Others around us knew who we were and what we had done as full-time service missionaries so many graciously let us in front of them despite the late hour and I’m sure their excitement to see their own families. It was very kind and we appreciated it... A LOT. After a quick stop to the bathroom to brush our teeth, we made our way to baggage claim. As Sister Bassett, Sister Saunders, and I synced our steps, we were all anticipating the moment that we had only been able to dream about for the last 18 months. Our dreams were coming true in a way we never could have predicted. A large crowd walked in front of us as we began to funnel through the roped path provided by airport security. It was as if all was quiet for just a moment as we all saw necks of our anxiously awaiting families craning to see above the crowd. The silence was shattered as soon as I heard my mother yelling my name. The next thing I saw was her dodge under ropes and through the people as she quickened her pace to greet me with the biggest and warmest hugs she could muster. I was home and the tears of joy were hard to control. Next came my older sister, Alise, she swooped in just before I was able to hug my father. The hugs were quick, but oh so sincere. Most memorable of them all was the hug from my nephew, Isaac Coombs. He was being held and as I approached him he asked, "Are you AnneMarie?" in his cute, high-pitched, 3-year-old-kid voice. I smiled and said yes which was followed by a smile and wide open arms for another warm hug. I pulled him all the way over the security ropes to hold him as the hugs continued. I have never felt more welcomed or loved than in that moment. My mind was calm and yet scattered. There was so much to be said, but no words or thoughts had time to form. Simply put, I was happy to be home and relieved to be so warmly welcomed at such a delayed hour on Friday night.  It was sometime after 11pm at this point.

Together we gathered my luggage from baggage claim and walked to the parking lot. As we approached an unfamiliar car, a 2012 dark blue Jetta to be exact, I asked, “Whose car is this?” My dad just smiled and said, “Yours.” One surprise after another. It was a happy night. Upon arrival to our new house in Utah, my mother gave me a tour and finished it in my beautiful room. My mother is so talented when it comes to decorating and I am so grateful for all the preparation that my family has done just for me, they are THE best. It really was an unforgettable night.

Saturday was my first day home. I couldn't sleep so I was up early unpacking my things while my little sister Danielle, now my companion, slept. I woke her up at 6:30AM so we could exercise. She showed me a 3 mile loop that we could run. As we ran she asked a million questions about my mission. I was already out if breath because of the drastic altitude change but the constant talking didn't help either haha, I was dying. When we got back home Danielle had to shower and head to work so I found my mom so that she could be my next companion. It is weird still needing a companion but not have one assigned. I ran errands with my mom until 4PM.

By 4PM it was time for me and my family to walk to the stake center for my appointment with the stake president. My older sister, her husband and son, my older brother, and my parents accompanied me to meet President Jushau for my release. Before I was released from my full time missionary service, President Jushau pulled me into his office separately to get to know me and to ask about my mission experience. My parents moved here to Highland, Utah about a year ago, which means I was in Korea when this change happened...I had never before met President Jushau but he was nice and patience as I answered his questions. It's funny because I hardly cried as I left Korea but now being home it's like I can't stop. Every little question or comment that he asked, triggered more and more tears. In that moment I REALLY realized how much I loved and missed my mission and all the people that made it what it was. Together we went over goals of what I would do to never forget those valuable lessons that I learned and then we called my family in for the actual release. It was hard to take off my name tag... My name tag has been my best accessory and symbol of my purpose as I serve my Lord and Savior, but now it was time for me to move on and grow in other ways that The Lord has in store for me.

Sunday was a great day. In the morning before church, my parents and I were asked to attend a portion of the Stake presidency meeting. Here is where newly returned missionaries come to report. I love talking about Korea and all of the great people I was privileged to meet, and that is exactly what they asked me to do. After I spoke and bore my testimony, my parents were asked to bear their testimonies as well. I always knew they were proud of me but the spirit coupled with their words, confirmed to me how appreciative and impactful my experiences and letters home were for them. Hearing from President Jushau yesterday, from the high council today, from my parents on several occasions, and also from the feelings of the spirit, I knew that my service had been accepted.

It was the day of my homecoming talk at church and an open house that followed. Family and friends had traveled from across the country and I was so excited to tell them all about what I learned in the last 18 months. I had prepared well to be one of four speakers today but when I arrived I was informed that there would only be two speakers.. The youth speakers bailed since it was a holiday weekend! I was asked to speak for 25 minutes... 25! That's a long talk but when it came time for me to speak it went well. I felt guided by the spirit and the tears in the congregations eye's confirmed that they felt the spirit too. It was a good meeting.


Immediately after sacrament meeting, those who came to hear me speak made their way to our house for a delicious lunch made by my mother. It was a happy moment to see so many of my family members and friends gathered to welcome me home. We socialized but eventually the house cleared out and I was exhausted. In the passed couple days, I have been running on less than six hours of sleep. Jet lag is rough. Just when I thought I could relax for the evening, my phone buzzed. It was a fellow missionary whom I served with, Elder Anderson- also known as Hayden. He got home a couple months ago and knows what it's like to adjust. He more or less forced me to come out with him. We went to a game night with some of his high school friends. They were all returned missionaries so they understood my discomfort and awkwardness haha. It was a fun night. We played a game that required music lyrics and boy let me tell you, I don't remember much of what I listened to before my mission. Regardless, I enjoyed myself and especially appreciated Elder Anderson reaching out to me. When he said goodbye to me, he gave me a big hug and said, "Sister Sloan, welcome home. You were a great missionary but we are all so happy to have you home." I almost cried. It’s strange coming back to a world that continues to evolve without you. Sometimes I feel as if my missionary life is forgotten, so I appreciated the reassurance that it was very much remembered and appreciated.